DAPER has the ability to bind to DNA through "stacking", a process very different from the intercalation of DNA binding dyes such as ethidium bromide. When the DAPER dye solution is added to a solution containing DNA, the DNA will precipitate out, with the DAPER dye still associated with it. The fact that DNA will carry a defined amount of DAPER dye allows quantification. The dye is offered by licensee Pierce Chemicals, via catalogue.